Over 300 landmines found in Surin border clearance operations

2026-03-18 - 06:21

SURIN — The Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters has uncovered more than 300 landmines during ongoing clearance operations along the Thai–Cambodian border in Kap Choeng district, as efforts continue to secure the area for local residents. On 17 March, the Thai Mine Action Center under the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters reported progress in demining operations at Ban Dan in tambon Dan, covering two main zones, Sector 1 and Sector 2. In Sector 1, spanning 172,420 square metres, authorities recently cleared an additional 686 square metres without finding new explosives. Since operations began on 10 February, a total of 58,901 square metres — or 34.16% of the area — has been declared safe. However, 65.84% remains at risk. Officials have discovered 269 landmines in this sector, mostly anti-personnel mines. In Sector 2, covering 171,820 square metres, an additional 494 square metres has been cleared, accounting for 0.29% of the area. Four landmines were recently found, including M16A2 bounding mines, M14 anti-personnel mines and a Type 59 anti-vehicle mine. Since 3 March, clearance operations in Sector 2 have secured 32,279 square metres, or 18.79% of the area. Authorities estimate that 81.21% — or 139,541 square metres — remains contaminated or suspected to contain landmines. A total of 68 explosive devices have been found in this sector, including M16A1 and M16A2 bounding mines, M14 anti-personnel mines and a Type 59 anti-vehicle mine. Officials said the operations aim to reduce risks and restore safety for communities living along the border.